McCarran welcomes record-breaking 50 millionth passenger to Las Vegas
McCarran International Airport welcomed the record-breaking 50 millionth passenger of 2019 to Las Vegas Thursday to a water cannon salute and a party-like atmosphere.
Hilda Black from San Antonio was the lucky traveler to be crowned the 50 millionth passenger this year. It wasn’t until her flight was descending into Las Vegas when the captain made the announcement that the milestone passenger was on board their plane.
“It’s exciting, I’m part of history,” Black said. “While I was smiling I was told this made national news, so I was like, ‘Oh gosh, I’m sweating now.”
Black traveled to Las Vegas with her husband Robert and son Logan, who turned 21 last month. His twin brother George missed all the fun as he was set to arrive on a different flight Thursday night.
“He’ll be kicking himself now,” Black said.
Logan and Robert Black said they hope Hilda’s luck rubs off on them as they gamble in Las Vegas this weekend.
This marks the third-straight year Las Vegas’ airport will set an all-time passenger record and the first time McCarran topped the 50 million passenger mark in its 71-year history.
Clark County Commission Chairwoman Marilyn Kirkpatrick said that although the celebration was honoring the 50 millionth passenger, every passenger is important to the area.
“Each and everyone of you (passengers), each time you come here and enjoy my home like I do, it does a lot for us,” Kirkpatrick said. “We thank you and want you to keep coming back.”
With a few weeks to go, 2019 already broke the record set last year of 49.7 million passengers, which bested the previous record set in 2017 of 48.5 million. The record high for passengers in a single month was achieved twice this year, in May and October respectively.
Director of Aviation Rosemary Vassiliadis said she expects the year to end with around 50.5-50.6 million passengers going through McCarran’s gates.
After deplaning on Thursday, the passengers aboard an Allegiant flight from San Antonio received a VIP escort to the Terminal 1 baggage claim where a celebration with music and dancers, Raiders and Golden Knights mascots and cheerleaders was waiting to welcome them.
Black was treated to a prize pack featuring various prizes from the Raiders, Vegas Golden Knights and Las Vegas-themed items.
Black said she’s been to Las Vegas several times, but this time in particular is something to write home about.
“I’m going to tell my friends as soon as I get off this stage,” she said. “This is neat and unexpected.”
Contact Mick Akers at makers@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2920. Follow @mickakers on Twitter.
